Cryptorchidism
Also known as: Retained testicle · Kryptorchismus · Hodenhochstand · Ectopia testis · Monorchismus · …
Overview
What it is
Cryptorchidism is a developmental condition of the male reproductive system where one or both testicles fail to descend normally into the scrotum. Instead, the undescended testicle remains trapped inside the abdomen or in the groin area. This failure to descend is a physical development issue rather than an active illness, but it alters how the reproductive organs develop.
How it presents
Owners or veterinarians typically notice this condition around six months of age when only one or neither testicle can be felt in the scrotum. Affected dogs usually behave normally and show no signs of pain, though the retained tissue has a higher risk of becoming cancerous later in life.
Treatment
The condition is highly treatable through a one-time surgical procedure to remove both testicles to prevent tumors from developing later. This surgery typically costs between 600 and 1500 EUR, depending on whether the retained testicle is located in the groin or deep within the abdomen.
How it's tested
Klinische Untersuchung auf Kryptorchismus(Palpation)
Primary testClinical examKlinische Untersuchung durch Palpation des Hodensacks durch einen Tierarzt, gegebenenfalls ergänzt durch eine Ultraschalluntersuchung zur Lokalisation des nicht abgestiegenen Hodens.
Issuing body: vet
Affected breeds
24 of 46 breeds
Basset Fauve de BretagneRecommended standard
BriardRecommended standard
Chow ChowRecommended standard
DalmatianRecommended standard
Dutch Shepherd (Longhair)Recommended standard
Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired)Recommended standard
German HoundRecommended standard
German Roughhaired PointerRecommended standard
German Shorthaired PointerRecommended standard
JagdterrierRecommended standard
Japanese ChinRecommended standard
King Charles SpanielRecommended standard
Korean JindoRecommended standard
Norwegian BuhundRecommended standard
Smooth-haired DachshundRecommended standard
Tibetan SpanielRecommended standard
BeauceronAlso recommended
Berger PicardAlso recommended
BroholmerAlso recommended
ChihuahuaAlso recommended
ChiweenieAlso recommended
DachshundAlso recommended
DoxiepooAlso recommended
Dutch Shepherd (Shorthair)Also recommended
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cryptorchidism?
Cryptorchidism is a developmental condition of the male reproductive system where one or both testicles fail to descend normally into the scrotum. Instead, the undescended testicle remains trapped inside the abdomen or in the groin area. This failure to descend is a physical development issue rather than an active illness, but it alters how the reproductive organs develop.
How is Cryptorchidism tested?
Tests currently in our database: Klinische Untersuchung auf Kryptorchismus.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Basset Fauve de Bretagne, Briard, Chow Chow, Dalmatian, Dutch Shepherd (Longhair), Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired), German Hound, German Roughhaired Pointer.